King James Version
Matthew 16:26 in the King James Version says “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchang...” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”
Matthew 16:26 · KJV
Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.
For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.
Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“For”
G1063properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
“if”
G1437a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
“world”
G2889orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
“the whole”
G3650"whole" or "all", i.e., complete (in extent, amount, time or degree), especially (neuter) as noun or adverb
“soul”
G5590breath, i.e., (by implication) spirit, abstractly or concretely (the animal sentient principle only; thus distinguished on the one hand from g4151, wh
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
“give”
G1325to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
“soul”
G5590breath, i.e., (by implication) spirit, abstractly or concretely (the animal sentient principle only; thus distinguished on the one hand from g4151, wh
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Matthew 16:26 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
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